Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite beats the classic appeal of Old-Fashioned Meatloaf. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. Did you know that meatloaf has been a staple in American kitchens since the Great Depression? It was the perfect solution for stretching limited resources while providing a delicious and filling meal for the family. With its juicy texture, savory flavor, and enticing aroma wafting through the house, it’s no wonder that meatloaf remains a family favorite today!

This dish is incredibly easy to whip up, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or a leisurely Sunday dinner. If you love our creamy Chicken Alfredo or zesty Taco Casserole, you’ll appreciate how Old-Fashioned Meatloaf can be customized with your favorite seasonings and toppings. So grab your apron and get ready to rekindle your love for this timeless recipe—it’s sure to bring smiles to the dinner table!

What is Old-Fashioned Meatloaf?

You might be wondering, “Why is it called meatloaf?” Well, it’s quite simple—it’s literally a loaf made of meat! I like to think of it as the culinary equivalent of a warm hug! Traditionally made with ground beef, breadcrumbs, and spices, some versions add eggs for binding and even vegetables for an extra kick. It’s called “meatloaf” not because it’s complicated— but simply because it’s “a loaf” of “meat,” which sounds a lot tastier than “meat block,” right? And as they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” So why not impress your loved ones with this meaty masterpiece? Get ready to dig in!

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

What makes Old-Fashioned Meatloaf so incredible? For starters, it’s the ultimate comfort food, embodying everything warm and inviting about home-cooked meals. With each bite, you’re enveloped in a blanket of flavor that’s simply irresistible.

But that’s not all! Homemade meatloaf is also budget-friendly, which means you can keep your wallet happy while feeding your family. With ground beef, bread crumbs, and a few pantry staples, this dish won’t strain your budget, leaving you with more cash for those much-deserved treats down the line!

Lastly, its flexibility deserves a shoutout. Whether you add tangy ketchup on top or delectable BBQ sauce, the combinations are endless! Think of it as a flavorful canvas waiting for your artistic culinary touch. If you’re a fan of comforting recipes like Shepherd’s Pie or Classic Lasagna, you’ll absolutely want to give this meatloaf a go!

How to Make Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

Quick Overview

Cooking this Old-Fashioned Meatloaf is as easy as pie (or should I say loaf?). With a preparation time of just 20 minutes and a bake time of around an hour, you’ll have a wholesome meal on the table in no time. It’s a straightforward recipe that delivers mouthwatering results every time, thanks to its blend of savory ingredients and a tender texture!

Key Ingredients for Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 egg
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup ketchup (for topping)
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are completely integrated (but not overmixed!).
3. Shape the Loaf: Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased baking dish.
4. Add Topping: Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf to create a flavorful glaze.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
6. Rest and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed veggies for a complete meal!

What to Serve Old-Fashioned Meatloaf With

Old-Fashioned Meatloaf pairs fabulously with various side dishes. Classic mashed potatoes smothered in gravy create a comforting duo, while buttered corn adds a sweet crunch. If you’re in the mood for something a bit lighter, consider a fresh garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the flavors. And for beverage options, a refreshing iced tea or lemonade can complement the meal perfectly!

Top Tips for Perfecting Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix, as this can make the meatloaf dense rather than tender.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to get creative with flavors! Adding chopped bell peppers, diced mushrooms, or even some shredded cheese can elevate your meatloaf game.
• Temperature Check: Make sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked but still juicy.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers, if there are any, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider wrapping individual portions in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag—this way, you can enjoy your Old-Fashioned Meatloaf for up to 3 months!

When you’re ready to reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, drizzling with a bit of extra ketchup or BBQ sauce keeps it from drying out.

Incorporating Old-Fashioned Meatloaf into your family dining repertoire will surely make dinnertime feel special yet homey. So roll up your sleeves and give this timeless recipe a try—you won’t regret it! Whether you’re preparing it for yourself, a gathering, or an everyday family meal, this Old-Fashioned Meatloaf is sure to win hearts and satisfy appetites. Happy cooking!

Old-Fashioned Meatloaf

A classic and hearty meatloaf recipe that's easy to prepare and a family favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Meatloaf Mixture

• 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for best results.
• 1 cup breadcrumbs Can use plain or seasoned breadcrumbs.
• 1/4 cup milk Adds moisture to the mixture.
• 1 large egg Acts as a binder for the meatloaf.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped Enhances flavor and texture.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Adds depth of flavor.
• 1 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper Freshly ground is preferred.

Topping

• 1/2 cup ketchup For topping; can substitute BBQ sauce.

Optional Garnish

• to taste chopped parsley For garnish.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, onion, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are completely integrated (but not overmixed!).
3. Form the meat mixture into a loaf shape and place it in a greased baking dish.
4. Spread ketchup over the top of the loaf to create a flavorful glaze.

Baking

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C).
2. Allow the meatloaf to rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C).